ASTORIA, NY – GNUSA
The 2026 Miss Greek Independence Competition will be held on Sunday, March 22, 2026, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Stathakeion Cultural Center. “This year’s event will honor the legacy of Manto Mavrogenous, one of the most extraordinary heroines of the Greek War of Independence, while celebrating the next generation of Hellenic leadership within the community”, according to an announcement issued by the Parade Committee.
“Named for Mavrogenous—who devoted her fortune, intellect, and life to Greece’s freedom—the distinction is not a conventional beauty pageant. Instead, it serves as a tribute to character, conscience, and civic purpose, the very qualities that defined the spirit of 1821”, the Committee notes adding that the title Miss Greek Independence – Manto Mavrogenous is awarded to a young woman who exemplifies the enduring ideals of Greek independence through knowledge, service, and leadership.
According to the Competition organizers, the winner should reflect the values embodied by Manto Mavrogenous: Patriotic awareness rooted in Greek history and the legacy of 1821; Intellectual engagement with Hellenic culture, language, and ideals; Leadership and civic involvement within the community; Moral courage and integrity guided by principle; Grace with purpose, uniting dignity with service; A strong Diaspora identity, bridging Greece and the Greek‑American experience.
“Like her namesake, she represents substance over spectacle and service over self, carrying the spirit of Greek independence forward with clarity, dignity, and responsibility”, the announcement states adding that cash awards will be presented to recognize excellence: $1,000 for first place, $500 for second place, and $250 for third place.
For an application and additional info, all those interested may email [email protected]
